Ps5 Standard vs Slim: Which Playstation 5 Should You Buy?
So, you’re ready to dive into the next generation of gaming? Excellent choice! But before you can lose yourself in breathtaking worlds and epic adventures, there’s a crucial decision to make: which PlayStation 5 is right for you?
The battle of the consoles is on, pitting the original PlayStation 5 Standard against its sleek, more compact sibling, the PlayStation 5 Slim. Both promise unparalleled gaming experiences, but they come with distinct features and considerations that could sway your decision. Choosing the best console for your needs depends on your budget, space, and gaming preferences.
This detailed comparison will break down everything you need to know about the PS5 Standard and the PS5 Slim. We’ll explore their design, performance, features, and, of course, the all-important price point. By the end, you’ll be armed with the knowledge to confidently choose the perfect PlayStation 5 for your gaming setup.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | PS5 Standard | PS5 Slim |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | 825GB Custom SSD | 1TB Custom SSD |
| Disc Drive | 4K Blu-ray Drive | Optional 4K Blu-ray Drive (Digital Edition) |
| Dimensions (Approx.) | 10.4 x 15.4 x 2.6 inches | 10.0 x 15.0 x 4.0 inches |
| Weight (Approx.) | 9.9 lbs | 7.1 lbs |
| CPU | AMD Zen 2-based CPU | AMD Zen 2-based CPU |
| GPU | AMD Radeon RDNA 2-based Graphics Engine | AMD Radeon RDNA 2-based Graphics Engine |
| RAM | 16GB GDDR6 | 16GB GDDR6 |
| Max Resolution | 8K | 8K |
| HDR Support | Yes | Yes |
| USB Ports | 1x USB-C (Front), 2x USB-A (Rear), 2x USB-A (Front) | 1x USB-C (Front), 2x USB-A (Rear) |
| Ethernet Port | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6E |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Size and Design
- Ps5 Standard: The original PS5 boasts a larger, more imposing design. It features a curved, white aesthetic with black accents, and can be oriented both vertically and horizontally. However, its size can be a challenge for some entertainment setups.
- Slim: The PS5 Slim is significantly smaller and lighter than the standard model. It retains the white and black color scheme but with a more streamlined and compact design. This makes it easier to fit into tighter spaces.
- Winner: Slim
Storage Capacity
- Ps5 Standard: The original PS5 comes with a 825GB internal SSD, with about 667GB usable. This provides fast loading times, but the limited space can require frequent game management or the addition of an external SSD.
- Slim: The PS5 Slim offers a larger 1TB internal SSD. This provides more usable storage space compared to the original PS5, reducing the need for frequent game deletions or external storage.
- Winner: Slim
Disc Drive
- Ps5 Standard: The standard PS5 includes a built-in 4K Blu-ray disc drive, allowing you to play physical game discs and 4K Blu-ray movies. This offers flexibility for users who prefer physical media.
- Slim: The PS5 Slim is available in two versions: one with a detachable 4K Blu-ray disc drive and a digital-only version without a disc drive. The detachable drive provides flexibility, while the digital-only option is more streamlined.
- Winner: Standard (for those who want a built in drive) / Slim (for those who want options)
Price
- Ps5 Standard: The standard PS5, when first released, had a higher price point than the slim model.
- Slim: The PS5 Slim generally has a lower price point than the standard PS5, particularly the digital edition.
- Winner: Slim
Cooling System
- Ps5 Standard: The original PS5 uses a large heatsink and fan system for cooling, which can generate some noise under heavy load.
- Slim: The PS5 Slim features an updated cooling system designed to be more efficient and quieter.
- Winner: Slim
Ports
- Ps5 Standard: The standard PS5 has a variety of ports, including multiple USB ports and an HDMI port.
- Slim: The PS5 Slim retains the essential ports, but the port layout may be slightly different.
- Winner: Tie
Power Consumption
- Ps5 Standard: The standard PS5 consumes a significant amount of power, especially during demanding games.
- Slim: The PS5 Slim is designed to be more energy-efficient, consuming less power than the original model.
- Winner: Slim
Weight
- Ps5 Standard: The standard PS5 is heavier than the slim model, making it less portable.
- Slim: The PS5 Slim is significantly lighter, making it easier to move and transport.
- Winner: Slim
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | PS5 Slim |
| Built-in Disc Drive | PS5 Standard |
| Size | PS5 Slim |
| Weight | PS5 Slim |
| Value (Considering Features & Price) | Tie |
| Wi-Fi | PS5 Slim |
What They Have in Common
- Processing Power: Both consoles utilize the same custom AMD CPU and GPU architecture, ensuring identical performance in games and applications. This translates to the same visual fidelity and frame rates.
- Game Library: The PS5 Standard and Slim offer access to the same extensive library of games. You’ll be able to play all the latest PlayStation 5 titles on either console.
- Ray Tracing: Both consoles support ray tracing technology, which enhances visual realism with more accurate lighting, shadows, and reflections, resulting in a more immersive gaming experience.
- SSD Performance: Both consoles feature a custom ultra-fast SSD that significantly reduces loading times in games and allows for faster data streaming, improving overall performance.
- Dualsense Controller: Both consoles come with the innovative DualSense controller, offering haptic feedback and adaptive triggers for a more immersive and interactive gaming experience.
- Audio Technology: Both consoles support 3D audio technology through compatible headphones or speakers, providing a more immersive and spatial audio experience.
PS5 Standard vs Slim Buying Guide
Performance and Features
Both the PS5 Standard and Slim offer the same core performance, driven by the same custom AMD Ryzen Zen 2 CPU and AMD Radeon RDNA 2-based GPU. This means you’ll experience identical frame rates, resolution capabilities (up to 8K), and overall gaming performance on both consoles. The main difference lies in the design and physical dimensions. The standard PS5 is larger and includes a disc drive. The Slim is more compact, with a smaller footprint, and some models feature a detachable disc drive. Consider your space and design preferences when choosing.
Design and Aesthetics
The PS5 Standard boasts a distinctive, somewhat bulky design with its white panels and black center. Its size can be a significant factor for some users. The PS5 Slim, on the other hand, presents a sleeker, more streamlined aesthetic. It’s noticeably thinner and features a more modern look, with a slightly curved design. The Slim also features four separate panels, compared to the Standard’s two. Ultimately, the best choice depends on personal preference and the available space in your entertainment setup.
Storage Capacity
The PS5 Standard comes with a 825GB custom SSD, with approximately 667GB available for use. The PS5 Slim offers a slightly increased storage capacity, with a 1TB SSD. Both consoles allow for storage expansion via an NVMe SSD slot, allowing you to add additional storage for your games. If you plan to download a lot of games, you may want to factor in the storage capacity difference. Either way, you can easily expand the storage for either console.
Disc Drive Considerations
The PS5 Standard includes an integrated 4K Blu-ray disc drive, allowing you to play physical game discs and watch 4K Blu-ray movies. The PS5 Slim has a detachable disc drive, which can be purchased separately for the digital edition. This gives you flexibility if you later decide you want the option to play physical media. The standard model offers convenience, while the Slim provides a modular approach. Consider your preference for physical media when making your decision.
Price and Availability
The PS5 Slim is generally priced slightly lower than the PS5 Standard. However, this may vary depending on retailer and promotions. The availability of both models is improving, but it’s always a good idea to check stock levels before making a purchase. The price difference and the availability in your region should be considered when deciding. The detachable disc drive for the Slim can add to the overall cost if you purchase it separately.
Accessories and Ecosystem
Both the PS5 Standard and Slim are compatible with the same accessories, including controllers, headsets, and the PlayStation VR2. The gaming experience is identical across both consoles. The available accessories and the overall PlayStation ecosystem are the same. This means you can easily transition between either console without having to worry about compatibility issues. The choice is more about the console itself, not the accessories.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy PS5 Standard If…
- You want a console with a built-in 4K Blu-ray drive and don’t want to purchase it separately.
- You prefer the original PS5’s design and are not concerned about its larger size.
- You prioritize having more USB ports on the console.
- You find the price difference acceptable for the features offered.
Buy PS5 Slim If…
- You want a more compact and space-saving console design.
- You prefer a console that’s lighter in weight.
- You don’t need a built-in disc drive and are fine with digital downloads (or you want the option to add one later).
- You want the latest Wi-Fi standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the PS5 Standard and Slim?
The primary differences lie in size, design, and storage. The PS5 Slim is smaller and lighter than the Standard. The Slim also includes a 1TB SSD, compared to the Standard’s 825GB. The Slim’s disc drive is detachable, offering flexibility. Both consoles offer the same performance, so the choice primarily depends on your preferred aesthetic and storage needs.
Does the PS5 Slim offer better performance than the PS5 Standard?
No, both consoles offer identical performance. They share the same CPU and GPU, ensuring the same frame rates, resolution capabilities, and overall gaming experience. The Slim is simply a redesigned version of the standard PS5, offering a more compact form factor. The performance difference is non-existent; the change is purely cosmetic and based on size.
Can I add more storage to the PS5 Standard and Slim?
Yes, both consoles support the installation of an NVMe SSD for storage expansion. This allows you to increase the storage capacity for your games, regardless of which console you choose. The process is the same for both consoles. This is critical for users with large game libraries, allowing you to avoid deleting games to make room for new ones.
Is the PS5 Slim easier to set up than the PS5 Standard?
The setup process is virtually the same for both consoles. You’ll connect the console to your TV and power source, sign into your PlayStation Network account, and install any necessary software updates. The physical setup is nearly identical, making it just as easy to set up either console. The only consideration is the slight size difference.
Does the PS5 Slim run quieter than the PS5 Standard?
The PS5 Slim has been designed to be more efficient, and it may run slightly quieter under certain circumstances. However, the noise levels are very similar and neither console is particularly loud. The improvements are subtle. Noise levels are generally acceptable on both models, so it shouldn’t be a major factor in your decision.
Can I buy a disc drive for the PS5 Slim later?
Yes, the PS5 Slim Digital Edition can be upgraded with a detachable Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive. This gives you the option of purchasing the digital edition and adding disc drive functionality later. This is a key advantage of the Slim’s modular design. The disc drive is sold separately, so you will need to factor in the additional cost.
Which console should I buy if I’m on a budget?
The PS5 Slim is typically priced slightly lower than the PS5 Standard. However, the prices may vary depending on the retailer and any current promotions. It is best to check the current prices. The digital edition of the Slim (without a disc drive) is often the most affordable option. Consider your budget to choose the best option.
Final Verdict
The PS5 Slim offers a more compact and streamlined design with a slightly increased storage capacity and a detachable disc drive option. While the Standard offers a more traditional design with a built-in disc drive and the same performance capabilities. The Slim’s improved design and the added convenience of the detachable disc drive make it the more appealing option for most users.
Winner: PS5 Slim